MRIs WITH NO WAIT TIME

FAST, EASY SERVICE, WALK-INS WELCOME

WHY GET AN MRI?

Utilizing a non-invasive procedure to examine the human body is preferable to a surgical procedure. An MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, safely achieves this preference. MRIs use strong magnetic fields and radiofrequency to take high-resolution images of the area surrounding bone tissue.

Until recently, patients in need of an MRI required a doctor’s referral to get one. Typically, this practice forces patients to spend a large portion of their day in an overcrowded waiting room.

Rheumatic Disease Clinic would like to change that. We are now offering MRIs to patients without the need for a referral. Doing so makes it possible for patients to reduce the amount of time waiting for an MRI and alleviate some of the discomfort associated with visiting the doctor.

HOW PATIENTS BENEFIT FROM MRIs

Helps Ongoing Monitoring

Accurate Diagnosis

Contributes to Effective Treatment

Improves Surgical Planning

Peace of Mind

WHY MRIs ARE NECESSARY

Accurately Identify Ligament and Muscle Tears

Highlights Inner Swollen Regions

Examine the Spine With Precision

Differentiate Soft Tissue Fluidly

Early Detection

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING

A scan is performed in order to see the interior of the body for examination. The image is produced by using high powered magnets and radio waves to create a picture of the internal structures. This is ideal for post-op examination to see how the body is healing in a non-invasive way. These types of scans are key for accessing the stage of a disease or the severity of a tear or fracture.

SET A TIME THAT WORKS FOR YOU

FAQs

Will it take a long time to get an MRI?

The time it takes to get an MRI varies. Contributing factors include the area of the body being scanned and the clarity of the images produced. To reduce the risk of capturing blurry images, patients may be asked to hold their breath during these sessions. The average examination typically lasts between 20 and 60 minutes.

What if I have trouble remaining still?

Moving around during the examination can distort the images being captured. If this occurs, additional pictures will need to be taken. To reduce the likelihood of distorted images, patients are encouraged to reposition between pictures as needed. Doctors may also advise patients to take a short break midway through the session.

Will the MRI machine trigger my Claustrophobia?

An MRI machine will only produce a quality scan when the area in need of analyzing is in the center of the scanner. Due to the location requirements, patients with claustrophobia may feel uncomfortable during the examination. In extreme cases, sedation is available, however, patients are required to have a driver waiting to take them home after the session.

What are the risks of having an MRI?

There are very few risks involved with an MRI because the machine uses a magnetic field to take the required images. Patients are unable to feel this field unless they have metal within their body. Certain types of metal will move when the magnetic field is turned on. Due to this, patients need to tell their doctor about any metal contained within their body prior to the MRI scan.

Can Anyone Get an MRI?

For safety reasons, there are restrictions on who can have an MRI. If any of the following applies to you, or if there are any other devices implanted within your body that are not listed, tell your doctor.

Cardiac Pacemaker

Cochlear Implants

Pregnancy

Metal Fragments in Eye

Aneurysm Clip

Electronic Implant or Device

Prosthetic or Artificial Limb

Hearing Aid

"I had a very good experience at the Rheumatic Disease Clinic of Houston, and received detailed information and advice from Dr. Chintamaneni, m.d. Thanks for the expert attention."